Why is Sweet Tea a Big Thing in The South

Here in Madison and all across the South... sweet tea isn’t just a drink, it’s a tradition. Often referred to as the “house wine of the South,” sweet tea has been a staple on Southern tables for generations. It’s served at family gatherings, church potlucks, backyard barbecues, and just about any event where folks come together.

The origins of sweet tea trace back to the late 1800s when tea became more affordable and refrigeration more common. Originally made with green tea, the Southern version switched to black tea over time. The signature sweetener? A heaping helping of sugar, usually added while the tea is still hot so it dissolves smoothly. Pour it over ice, garnish with a lemon wedge, and you’ve got yourself a refreshing glass of Southern comfort.

Some households in Madison even pass down their sweet tea recipes, debating over things like whether to steep the tea bags or boil them, and just how much sugar is “right.” (Hint: the answer is always “more than you think.”)

Whether you're new to the South or born and raised here, a glass of sweet tea is a warm welcome in liquid form.

Goodland Pourhouse

Goodland Pour House is a casual, family-friendly gastropub that has become a beloved spot in the Huntsville community. It's known for its chef-inspired, modern American comfort food and rotating taps of local and regional craft beers and offers a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors.​

Originally located in Madison, Goodland Pour House relocated to Huntsville, taking over the former Brass Tap location at Merchant Square off Bob Wallace Avenue. This move allowed the establishment to expand its offerings and better serve the Huntsville area.

The new location features a diverse menu, including sandwiches, appetizers, Detroit deep-dish pizzas, and more. Patrons can enjoy dishes like the Fried Chicken Sandwich, Korean Wings, and unique pizzas such as the El “Beer”ia and Notorious P.I.E. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating with heating, making it a comfortable spot year-round.​

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or simply looking for a cozy place to enjoy a meal with family and friends, Goodland Pour House is a noteworthy addition to Huntsville's dining scene.​​

Check it out

What is a Dogwood Winter

Here in Madison, you may have noticed those chilly snaps that sneak in just when you’re ready to pack away your sweaters. That’s what folks around here often call a Dogwood Winter... a brief return of cool weather in late spring, usually around late March to early April, right when the dogwood trees are blooming.

This Southern term refers to one of several "little winters" we experience in the South, including Blackberry Winter and Locust Winter. They're all short bursts of cold air that follow a stretch of warm weather, often tied to the blooming patterns of regional plants.

Dogwood Winter is part of a natural rhythm that’s been observed for generations, a sort of springtime hiccup before the heat of summer settles in. It’s also a gentle reminder not to plant your tender vegetables too early... Mother Nature isn’t quite finished with her cold spells just yet!

So next time you're caught off guard by a cool breeze under the white blossoms of a dogwood tree, you’ll know it’s just Dogwood Winter saying a quick “hello.”

Are You Prepared?

When severe weather strikes, early warnings can save lives. That’s why every household in Madison should have a Midland Weather Radio. This device provides instant alerts from the National Weather Service, even when power or cell service is down. With features like automatic severe weather updates and a battery backup, you’ll stay informed about tornadoes, thunderstorms, and flash floods. Here in Alabama, where unpredictable weather is common, having a Midland Weather Radio on hand offers peace of mind and essential protection for your family. Don’t wait until the next storm to get prepared! We've been hearing that they continue to sell out at local stores. Order yours today.

You can go here for instructions on how to set it up.

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